Cima University of Navarra is a biomedical research institution within the University of Navarra, focused on translational research aimed at developing new diagnostic and therapeutic solutions for patients. Cima collaborates closely with Clínica Universidad de Navarra to translate preclinical research into clinical practice and partners with academic, clinical, and industry stakeholders to accelerate scientific progress. Its research areas include cancer research, RNA medicine, immunotherapy, gene therapy, and other advanced biomedical technologies.

Purpose of role

Cima is seeking a senior fundraising professional with a proven track record in securing medium and major gifts, primarily from foundations and high-net-worth individuals, both locally and internationally (mainly Latin America).

The primary focus of this role is fundraising performance, with responsibility for identifying, cultivating, and securing significant philanthropic contributions to support Cima’s research mission. Based in Madrid and reporting to the Director of Fundraising, the role combines a strong results-driven approach with contributions to the development of a shared internal culture of philanthropy across the organization. It also involves acting as a key connector between donors, researchers, and internal stakeholders.

Primary responsibilities

• Achieve agreed fundraising objectives, with a strong emphasis on securing medium and major gifts from individuals and foundations.
• Identify, engage and solicit medium and major gift prospects – individuals, trusts and corporates – and other partnership opportunities, whilst cultivating relationships with former donors.
• Manage and develop a portfolio of donors and prospects, contributing to both the design and implementation of fundraising strategies.
• Oversee a prospect research programme that proactively seeks out new potential donors.
• Ensure proper donor stewardship, follow-up, and reporting, in coordination with the wider fundraising and institutional teams.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with internal stakeholders (clinicians, researchers, and colleagues) to support fundraising activities and foster a shared culture of philanthropy, particularly through Madrid-based initiatives.
• Contribute to accurate reporting, effective use of CRM systems, and strong management of projects, time, and workload.
• Mentor and support a small fundraising team by setting a clear sense of purpose and shared standards, encouraging collaboration, accountability, and professional growth.

Experience

We are seeking an experienced fundraiser with a strong track record of delivering income growth:

• 5–7 years of fundraising experience in the non-profit, foundation, higher education, healthcare, or research sectors.
• Proven success in developing and managing donor relationships, including with major donors and international supporters, building long-term, high-value partnerships that secure five- and six-figure gifts.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence, coordinate, and align internal stakeholders without direct line management.
• Experience contributing to or fostering a culture of philanthropy within research, healthcare, or academic environments.
• Confident and mature communicator, comfortable exploring new opportunities, building connections, following leads when appropriate, celebrating and sharing successes, and handling setbacks constructively.
• A dedicated professional with strong IT skills, a commitment to teamwork, and excellent time and workload management abilities.
  
  

Qualifications

• Degree in Communication, Business Administration, Marketing, or Public Relations.
• Must be fluent in both verbal and written English and Spanish.

Location:  Madrid, Spain

Location type:  Hybrid

Reporting to: Director of Fundraising

To apply for this role, please submit your CV/resume along with a cover letter in English that describes your interest in the position and demonstrates how your experience aligns with the requirements outlined in this announcement. You will also be asked to respond to a brief set of questions as part of the application process. Please click on the link below to begin your application.

If you have any questions about the role or organisation and would like an informal chat ahead of submitting a formal application, please reach out to Ruth Gardner at ruth@upsallinternational.com. To note: in order to keep your application safe and ensure your data is GDPR compliant, applications will not be accepted via email.

• The deadline for applications is Monday 2^nd March, 9:00 am CET ·

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Upsall International actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. In recruiting candidates, we seek candidates with the proven skills required, irrespective of race, gender, religion or belief, age, disability, or sexual orientation.